site.btaInterior Minister Congratulates Firefighters on Their Professional Holiday

“Today is a day when we rightfully honour your mission to protect lives, homes, and nature, often at the risk of your own lives. This is the highest example of courage,” Interior Minister Daniel Mitov said in his address to firefighters on the occasion of their professional holiday on Friday.

He was joined by Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov, deputy ministers, the professional leadership of the Interior Ministry, as well as representatives of state institutions and partner organizations at a ceremony held in the courtyard of the Fire Safety and Civil Protection General Directorate.

“The summer of 2025 put us to a severe test, fires caused damage, but thanks to your bravery, with the support of the army, forest rangers, volunteers, and our European partners, dozens of villages and hundreds of lives were saved,” Mitov told the firefighters.

He added that the heroism of Bulgarian firefighters is recognized across Europe. “European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen gave you as an example, and the forthcoming creation of a European Firefighting Centre proves that your expertise carries weight far beyond Bulgaria’s borders,” Mitov stressed. “Thank you for your strength, courage, and dedication. I say this both as a minister and as a citizen who has seen gratitude in the eyes of the people you saved. Be blessed, healthy, and confident in your calling,” he concluded.

The ceremony ended with the laying of wreaths and flowers at the monument to firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.